It may be one of the most awkward words to pronounce (thank god you can’t hear me trying to say it ;) ), but the Snæfellsnes Peninsula is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Iceland, and it’s becoming more and more popular with tourists, especially as a day trip from Reykjavik and south Iceland in general.
A land where mystical glaciers, rugged coastlines, and enchanted lava fields come together to create an adventure that feels both epic and delightfully intimate.
Whether you're a thrill-seeker eager for dramatic landscapes or a laid-back explorer searching for that perfect peaceful escape, this guide is your ticket to discovering one of Iceland's best-kept secrets.
Often nicknamed “Iceland in Miniature,” the Snæfellsnes Peninsula is a living, breathing canvas of natural wonders. Here’s why this slice of Icelandic paradise should be at the top of your travel list:
Also known as "Church Mountain," this is one of Iceland's most iconic and photogenic spots.
If you’ve ever looked up Iceland on Tiktok or Instagram, you’ll have seen this iconic shot.
Located near Grundarfjörður, its unique shape makes it easily recognizable and popular with photographers. Surrounded by stunning natural scenery, it’s a must-see for anyone visiting the Snæfellsnes Peninsula.
While the mountain is small compared to some others, its beauty is undeniable.
With waterfalls and picturesque landscapes nearby, it’s like something straight out of a fairytale.
You can visit the mountain year-round and shots of it in autumn look particularly stunning, but we visited in winter time, and it was very cool to see it in snow.
But truly, all year round will give a unique perspective on this wonderful spot.
It costs $10 (or at least that was the price when we visited in 2024), to park here, and they scan your number plate via camera as you enter the parking area, but you can pay via QR code. If you don’t want to pay, you’ll have to look for alternative parking, which isn’t always possible when it’s busy!
We just considered the parking fee to be like an “entrance fee”.
Also to note, there are no facilities here, and by that I mean toilets!
The crown jewel of the peninsula is Snæfellsjökull National Park.
This park is dominated by the magnificent Snæfellsjökull glacier, which sits atop an ancient volcano.
Wander among the lava fields, hike one of the many trails, and pause at viewpoints that offer panoramic scenes stretching to the horizon.
One of our favourite walks in this area was the Saxhóll Crater.
It’s fairly easy, just a steep climb, but there are steps the entire way up, and you’re greeted with amazing surrounding views of the Snæfellsjökull glacier, and you can peer into an old volcano too, which is always a cool experience.
It’s also free to visit here, and it doesn’t cost for parking- win win!
Another spot you can visit is Svörtuloft Lighthouse, which is around a 20 minute drive along a gravel road, so just take it slow.
This is one spot that Brad and I didn’t get to visit, simply due to the fact it was closed when we visited, but I 100% think it’s worth mentioning because I wanted to go.
Vatnshellir Cave is an 8,000-year-old lava tube where you can wander through cool, echoing chambers carved by ancient volcanic activity.
You’ll need to join a guided tour—tours typically provide the necessary gear and insights into the cave’s fascinating geological history.
Vatnshellir Cave tours typically run from May to September, when the weather is milder, making it easier for visitors to explore the cave safely.
During the colder months, tours are usually unavailable due to freezing weather conditions, so it's best to plan your visit during the warmer season.
Next, take a leisurely drive to the charming coastal villages of Arnarstapi and Hellnar.
These small towns boast stunning sea cliffs, dramatic rock formations, and cozy cafes where you can warm up with a hot drink after a brisk walk along the shore.
Stroll along winding paths that trace the coastline, admire natural arches and tide-carved formations, and let the sound of crashing waves wash away your stress.
We grabbed pizza from the Arnarstapi Center and Snjófell Restaurant which was really quite good!
No visit to Snæfellsnes is complete without marveling at the Lóndrangar basalt cliffs.
These towering rock formations, carved by centuries of natural forces, stand like ancient sentinels overlooking the North Atlantic.
The cliffs offer not only fantastic photo opportunities but also a glimpse into the geological history that has shaped Iceland’s dramatic landscapes.
We saw soooo many amazing birds here!
For an otherworldly beach experience, head to Djúpalónssandur.
This black lava beach isn’t your typical sandy getaway—it’s a dramatic, rugged shoreline dotted with smooth pebbles and relics of a bygone era. Legend has it that the beach holds secrets of shipwrecks and ancient tales, making it the perfect backdrop for imaginative exploration and photography.
I actually don’t know if it IS the MOST photographed, but it has to be up there, because I knew about it due to the amount of photos I saw online! ;)
Búðakirkja, also known as the Black Church of Búðir, is a striking little black wooden church located on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula.
Surrounded by a rugged lava field and overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, it stands in stark contrast to the vast Icelandic landscape, making it a favorite spot for photographers and travelers alike.
Originally built in the 18th century and later reconstructed in the 19th century, Búðakirkja has a simple yet elegant design, with a minimalistic interior and a peaceful atmosphere. While it’s no longer an active parish church, it’s still used for special ceremonies, including weddings.
Visiting is easy—just take a short detour off Route 54 near the small hamlet of Búðir. There’s no entrance fee, and you can explore the area freely. Whether you're drawn to its history, unique beauty, or dramatic setting, Búðakirkja is a must-see stop on your Snæfellsnes adventure!
I can only recommend where we stayed and that was at the Fosshotel Hellnar.
It was a great price, in a great location as you could walk to Hellnar from here, and the rooms were clean!
They also had EV charging which was a must for us.
Timing can truly enhance your Snæfellsnes adventure.
Whether you have just one day or a week to spare, there’s an itinerary that fits your travel style.
The best way to experience the peninsula is on your own schedule.
Renting a car gives you the freedom to stop whenever and wherever you please- you can check out our Iceland Rental Guide to help you book.
However, if you prefer to let someone else do the navigating, guided tours are a fantastic option—offering local insights that enrich your travel experience. Either way, be prepared for some winding roads and unforgettable views at every turn.
So there you have it, my guide on the best things to do on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula.
I hope you’ve enjoyed this post, and I urge you to visit this area of Iceland!
Check out more of my Iceland posts for planning and inspiration:
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